Why Should I Take Care of Myself if My Child is the One with the Addiction? [VIDEO]

If you’ve ever talked to a professional about your child struggling with substance use, chances are you’ve heard a common refrain — to take care of yourself. But why would a professional tell you to focus your energies on yourself, if your child is the one who needs saving?

The reason self-care is so important and so emphasized is because many parents unfortunately burn themselves out while trying to help their child, and therefore can be no help to them. As one parent put it, “We became as sick as he was – just trying to save him.”

Self-care doesn’t mean you forget about your child, nor does it mean you have to meditate or do yoga or similar activities. Watch Helpline Specialist Karla explain what self-care can mean to you and why we put such an emphasis on it:

Want Personal, One-on-One Help?

Helpline Specialists like Karla are ready to listen to your situation and your concerns about your child struggling with substance use, and help you make an action plan.

3Responses

Luong Chuong

August 21, 2019 at 11:39 PM

Thank you for sharing this story. It’s one thing to be able to advise other parents to do the right thing, but a lot harder to make the wise decision for your own family, especially when it goes against your natural instincts as a parent to protect your child.

Jill

Josie Feliz

May 3, 2019 at 11:37 AM

Thanks for your message Jill. We have forwarded your message to one of our helpline specialists who can help better answer your question, and she will be reaching out to you shortly. Our Helpline is a good place to start if you’d like to talk to someone about what you’re going through. Feel free to connect with us in whichever manner you choose in the future: https://drugfree.org/helpline
Thank you. -The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids